The Franklinville area sits near the northern portion of the Allegheny Plateau at elevations between 1,400-2,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences. The region features a mix of hardwood forests and rolling hillsides across southwestern New York and northern Pennsylvania. Campgrounds generally remain open from April through October with limited winter accessibility due to the area's significant snowfall averaging 65-85 inches annually.
What to do
Kayaking access: Willow Bay Recreation Area offers direct access to the Allegheny Reservoir with boat-in campsites. "We saw some boats anchored at sites which I thought was nice," notes Sean C., who also mentions the waterfront tent camping areas have "no drive up access for tent camping. A wagon is highly encouraged."
Outdoor festivals: Fall and summer festivals occur throughout the region, particularly in small towns near camping areas. "We went into town on Sunday for a market street festival which was small given COVID guidelines but nice," reports one camper who stayed at a Cuba campground while exploring the area.
Fishing opportunities: The Ischua Creek offers accessible fishing spots for campers staying in Hinsdale. "It sets along the Ischua creek which has good fishing and kayaking," according to Mike K. at Campground Adventures, which features 50 sites open seasonally.
What campers like
Natural privacy: Many campgrounds maintain wooded buffers between sites, particularly appealing for tent campers. "The site was surrounded by 20-25' of woods, so a lot of privacy," explains Tim J. about his stay at Willow Bay Recreation Area, adding "it was very quiet and private."
Family attractions: Jellystone Park of Western New York offers extensive activities beyond standard camping. "Water park, fishing, kayaking, swimming. It has it all," says Matthew M., while Erin H. notes it's "like a water park, meets campground" though "would not recommend to someone looking for silence."
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds feature larger-than-average campsites. Ryan P. from High Pines RV Park shares, "We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites. The park is close to the Allegheny Reservoir and the Kinzua Bridge."
What you should know
Cellular limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service, especially in more remote locations. "First of all, the Hemlock loop has literally zero Verizon coverage. If you walk up to the entrance of the loop, you'll get 2 bars," reports Tim J., while James S. notes, "No cell service with AT&T or Verizon" at Willow Bay.
Bathroom variations: Facilities range widely between campgrounds and even within the same property. Sean C. observed "vault toilets on the tent side and plumbing and showers on the RV side" at Willow Bay, while Paul G. at Skyline RV Resort found "the map was not correct and we did not have sewer hook up at the sight."
Reservation importance: Many campgrounds in the region undergo ownership changes and updates. "This campground just changed hands and there alot of changes in store for the coming year's," notes Mike K. about Campground Adventures, making advance research essential for the most current information.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused stays: Choose campgrounds based on amenities that match your family's interests. "Free putt putt. Clean! So much to do. There is a dog park as well!" says Sara H. about Jellystone Park, while another camper mentions they "have the best fireworks for July 4 and their Halloween weekends are full of fun and fright!"
Noise considerations: Some rv parks near Franklinville, New York cater specifically to families with constant activities. "Your kids won't be bored while staying here. There is enough to keep them entertained for days. Down side is it is very busy if your looking to relax," advises Robyn S.
Wagon necessity: For tent camping families, consider sites that require walking gear from parking areas. "You have to unload the car then walk everything to the camp," explains one camper about waterfront sites, suggesting bringing a wagon for easier transport of supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site verification: RV campers should confirm hookup details before arrival at Franklinville area rv parks. "The map was not correct and we did not have sewer hook up at the sight. The dumping station was free or included," notes Paul G., highlighting the importance of verifying amenities.
Elevation considerations: Some rv parks Franklinville, New York visitors encounter require leveling blocks due to uneven terrain. Tim J. mentions one site "slopes in the front and at the back" and recommends "a couple of extra tongue blocks would've been useful" for proper leveling.
Seasonal amperage: During summer heat, check for 50-amp service availability. "We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A," advises Nick O., who found High Pines RV Park primarily offered 30-amp connections despite having spacious sites.
